Women’s History Month Spotlight: Stephanie Ballena

Recently, Latination had the chance to chat with Stephanie Ballena about Women’s History Month. As a Dominican-Peruvian dancer, singer, and actress, Ballena is carving out a space for herself and other Latinas in Hollywood.

Born and raised in New Jersey, Ballena’s passion for performing began at the early age of three when she was enrolled in dance classes. She immediately fell in love with the art form, recognizing early on that movement had the power to connect people. “There is something so powerful about connecting with an audience. It’s the best feeling,” she shares. Her mother’s encouragement to pursue both dance and singing shaped her journey, allowing her to explore different forms of artistic expression.

As a proud Latina, Ballena holds a deep appreciation for her cultural heritage. Latin music remains at the core of her artistry, allowing her to connect with her Dominican and Peruvian roots. She previously sang in a tropical music group, which helped her form important industry connections. “It’s who you know, and never burn bridges in this industry,” she advises aspiring entertainers. Through that experience, she learned the value of relationships in the entertainment business and gained firsthand knowledge of navigating the industry as a woman of color.

In an era where beauty standards are often influenced by mainstream media, Ballena takes pride in embracing her natural curly hair and Dominican roots. “There is a norm in the industry to look like Kim Kardashian, but I want to embrace who I am and the beauty of being Latina,” she says. Her confidence is a reminder that representation matters, and she is dedicated to inspiring other young women to celebrate their natural beauty.

Now, Ballena is focusing on her next major venture: establishing her own entertainment company. Her business provides live entertainment for events, and she envisions expanding it into a full-fledged talent agency. Her goal is not just to perform but to create opportunities for others, ensuring that diverse voices and talents have a platform to shine.

As she continues to break barriers and redefine success on her terms, Stephanie Ballena is an inspiring example of resilience, passion, and the power of embracing one’s identity. During Women’s History Month, we celebrate trailblazers like her who are making history by uplifting their communities and paving the way for the next generation of Latina entertainers.